Olympus E-5 vs Panasonic GF3

On this page, we will be analyzing the Olympus E-5 versus Panasonic GF3, former being a Advanced DSLR while the latter is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by companies Olympus and Panasonic. The sensor resolution of the E-5 (12MP) and the GF3 (12MP) is relatively close and both cameras offer the same sensor sizing (Four Thirds).

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The E-5 was unveiled 6 months before the GF3 so they are both of a similar age. Both of the cameras have different body design with the Olympus E-5 being a Mid-size SLR camera and the Panasonic GF3 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before delving right into a in depth comparison, here is a quick summation of how the E-5 grades versus the GF3 for portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Below is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus E-5 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF3. The full galleries are provided at Olympus E-5 Gallery & Panasonic GF3 Gallery.

For those who are looking to carry your camera, you'll have to factor its weight and size. The Olympus E-5 offers outer measurements of 143mm x 117mm x 75mm (5.6" x 4.6" x 3.0") and a weight of 800 grams (1.76 lbs) and the Panasonic GF3 has specifications of 108mm x 67mm x 32mm (4.3" x 2.6" x 1.3") along with a weight of 264 grams (0.58 lbs).

Look at the Olympus E-5 versus Panasonic GF3 in our newest Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an ILC will differ based on the lens you have chosen at the time. Below is a front view overall size comparison of the E-5 compared to the GF3.

Factoring in dimensions and weight, the portability score of the E-5 and GF3 is 58 and 90 respectively.

More often than not, it is difficult to visualize the difference in sensor sizing only by researching a spec sheet. The graphic underneath will help provide you a clearer sense of the sensor sizing in the E-5 and GF3.

Clearly, both cameras have the same sensor dimensions and the identical resolution so you can expect comparable quality of pictures although you need to take the launch date of the cameras into account.